India successfully carried out a flight trial of an advanced Agni-5 missile equipped with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology, marking another milestone in the country’s strategic defence programme. The defence ministry confirmed the test on Saturday, stating that the missile can deliver multiple nuclear warheads to different targets spread across hundreds of kilometres.
The trial was conducted from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast on Friday. Officials said the test met all mission objectives and demonstrated India’s growing capability in long-range missile systems. The Agni-5 missile already has a strike range of more than 5,000 kilometres, placing several regions within its reach.
what MIRV technology means
MIRV, or Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle technology, allows a single missile to carry several warheads that can hit separate targets independently. Defence experts view this as a major advancement because it significantly increases the effectiveness of a missile system without requiring multiple launches. IMD warns of storms in north India, heavy rain alert issued for southern coasts
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With this capability, India joins a select group of nations that possess advanced missile systems equipped with MIRV technology. The development is considered important for strengthening strategic deterrence and improving operational flexibility in long-range defence systems.
Boost to India’s strategic deterrence
The latest test comes amid continued efforts by India to modernise its defence capabilities. Reports noted that the Agni missile series remains a key part of the country’s strategic forces programme. The Agni-5 system is regarded as one of India’s most advanced long-range ballistic missiles.
According to Hindustan Times, the defence minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the armed forces, and all teams associated with the mission after the successful trial. Officials described the launch as a major technological achievement for the country’s missile programme.
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The successful test also highlights continued progress in indigenous defence technology and missile development. India has been conducting regular trials of different variants of the Agni missile series over the years as part of its strategic preparedness and deterrence capabilities.
